Comparison of the Obtained Scores of Core Quality Assurance Standards in Public and Private Universities/Institutions

Abstract

Research in Afghanistan remains limited, and little is known about the comparative performance of public and private higher education institutions in terms of quality assurance. This comparative study was conducted to examine the implementation of core quality assurance standards across selected public and private universities and higher education institutions. The study utilized the official evaluation scores provided by the Ministry of Higher Education for accredited universities and institutions. The methodology involved a comparative analysis of scores in key domains, including research, library facilities, faculty performance, financial resources, and information technology infrastructure. The findings indicate that public universities and higher education institutions generally achieved higher scores in research activities, library services, and faculty qualifications compared to their private counterparts. Conversely, private universities and institutions performed better in the areas of financial management and information technology implementation, suggesting more effective application of resources in these domains. These results highlight both strengths and gaps in the quality assurance processes of Afghan higher education institutions and underscore the need for targeted improvements. In conclusion, the study demonstrates that quality assurance evaluation provides a valuable framework for assessing institutional performance and identifying areas for development. By highlighting the differences between public and private institutions, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of quality assurance practices in Afghanistan and offers evidence-based insights that can support policy-making, resource allocation, and the continuous enhancement of higher education standards in the country.